Test Implementation

Is everything ready to begin testing?

The task of test implementation is the final preparation of all necessary activities so that the test cases can be executed in the next step. Test design and test implementation activities are often combined.

Firm up the testing infrastructure

One of main tasks during implementation is the creation and integration of all testware, with special attention being paid to the details of the testing infrastructure. The test framework¹⁴ has to be programmed and installed in the test environment. Checking the environment is extremely important, as faults in the testing environment can cause system failures. In order to ensure that there are no delays or obstacles to testing, you also need to check that all additional tools (such as service virtualization, simulators, and other infrastructure elements) are in place and working.

Firm up your test cases

To ensure that your concrete test cases can be utilized without further changes or amendments, all test data have to be correctly transferred to the test environment. Abstract test cases have to be fed with specific test data.

As well as firming up your test cases, you need to define the test procedure itself—i.e., the planned tests have to be put into a logical sequence. This takes place according to the priorities you have defined.

Test suite, test procedure, test script

To keep a test cycle effective and to retain a logical structure, test cases are grouped into test suites. A test suite consists of multiple tests grouped according to the planned sequence of execution. The sequence has to planned so that the postconditions of a test case serve as the preconditions for the following test case. This simplifies the test procedure, as it obviates the need for dedicated pre- and postconditions for every test case. A test suite also includes the cleanup activities required once execution is complete.

Automating test procedures using scripts saves a lot of time compared with manual testing.

The most efficient way to plan the execution of test cases, test suites, and test procedures is defined in a test execution schedule.

The traceability of your test cases to the requirements and/or test conditions needs to be checked and, if necessary, updated. Test suites and procedures also have to be taken into account when checking traceability.